Jorge Chávez International Airport
Lima, PE · 11 kilometers (6.8 mi) northwest of the Historic Centre of Lima
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time |
|---|---|
| Airport Express Lima Bus | 45–70 min |
| Cabify Rideshare | 35–70 min |
| Hotel Shuttles Minibus | 35–70 min |
| InDrive Rideshare | 35–70 min |
Insider notes
Ensure your cab or rideshare is bound for "nuevo aeropuerto Jorge Chávez, Morales Duárez" to avoid detours to the old terminal, especially at night.
Arriving 4 hours ahead of long-haul departures during peak times is advised; staffing hiccups are still common in the new structure.
Do not attempt to leave the airport on foot; infrastructure surrounding the terminal is not pedestrian-friendly.
Welcome
Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) has undergone a significant transformation, relocating to a new, light-filled terminal on the north side of the runways. This newly developed hub is a breath of fresh air for travelers, with its modern conveniences and efficient layout, but keep an eye on your ground transport options—a vehicle is nearly your only choice for getting here. The old terminal still stands across the tarmac, serving as a poignant reminder of the airport's evolution. This shift has made bus services, rideshares, and prebooked shuttles more critical than ever.
At a glance
LIM serves around 25.3 million passengers annually. The airport features two runways and only one terminal, functioning as a primary hub for LATAM Perú. It is located 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) from the Historic Centre of Lima, making it accessible within 35–70 minutes by vehicle, depending on traffic. Key airlines operating here include Sky Airline and Viva Air Perú alongside LATAM.
Terminals & layout
The airport's sole terminal is a modern three-level building. The first floor handles arrivals, the second is designated for connections, and the third takes care of departures. Though the distances to gates are shorter than those at most South American hubs, travelers often face signage inconsistencies, so confirm directions with staff if in doubt. The simplified layout significantly reduces travel time to and from the gates, often taking just 15–20 minutes from entry to gate when it's not peak hours.
Getting to and from the city
With no metro or simple public bus services linked directly to the airport, travelers have limited options. Taxis, both regular and VIP, typically take 35–70 minutes to reach central Lima, depending on traffic. Rideshares like Uber and Cabify offer similar timeframes. Many experienced travelers prefer the Airport Express Lima bus for its fixed rates, onboard Wi-Fi, and convenient service to hotel areas in Miraflores and Barranco. Vehicle-only access makes prebooked or organized transport the go-to choice, especially if you're a first-timer navigating Lima's bustling avenues.
Traveller essentials
Upon arriving at LIM, resources for fresh arrivals are abundant post-customs. ATMs, currency exchanges, and SIM counters offer reasonable rates, with better deals a short walk deeper into the arrivals corridor. For those connecting flights, the architecture cleverly separates arriving and departing passengers, minimizing the chaotic crossflows that can complicate transit at major hubs. The connections level functions almost as a quieter mini-terminal, appreciated by those with longer layovers.
Dining & shopping highlights
LIM includes a blend of familiar franchises like McDonald's and Starbucks, alongside Peruvian eateries such as Tanta and the famous Sangucheria La Lucha. Indulge in local flavors at Cevicheria, or recharge at La Nacional. Shopping ranges from Dufry Duty Free and Peru Arteanías for gifts, to tech needs satisfied by iStore and Tech Zone. Despite the comprehensive retail offer, remember your arrival time, as post-10 p.m. flights may see some shops closing earlier.
Lounges
Business travelers and lounge-lovers should note the limited options as of 2026. LATAM's dedicated lounge and The Club LIM are the primary retreats, albeit often crowded during late-night international departures. Be sure to confirm your eligibility through your airline or credit program, as Priority Pass users report occasional entry denials when demand peaks.
Insider tips
- Insider: Ensure your cab or rideshare is bound for "nuevo aeropuerto Jorge Chávez, Morales Duárez" to avoid detours to the old terminal, especially at night.
- Time: Arriving 4 hours ahead of long-haul departures during peak times is advised; staffing hiccups are still common in the new structure.
- Avoid: Do not attempt to leave the airport on foot; infrastructure surrounding the terminal is not pedestrian-friendly.
- Money: After customs, take a minute to reach deeper ATMs and exchanges for better rates rather than using those first seen.
- Quiet: Escape the bustle by heading to the 2nd floor connections level—this less-traveled area offers a restful reprieve amid the evening rush.